Step 3 of 8: First 24 hours

What to do first when the power goes out

What official guidance says to do in the first hours, in the order it matters.

The short answer Keep the fridge and freezer doors closed. Run generators outdoors, 20 feet from windows and doors. Unplug appliances. Sources: Ready.gov, CDC.

1. Keep the food cold

An unopened refrigerator keeps food cold for about four hours. A full freezer holds its temperature for about 48 hours (Ready.gov).
Throw out food if the temperature is 40°F or higher (Ready.gov).
After the power returns, discard food that was exposed to 40°F or higher for two hours or more (Ready.gov).
If the outage lasts more than a day, discard refrigerated medication unless the label says otherwise. Ask your medical provider how long your medication can be kept at higher temperatures (Ready.gov).

2. Generators and carbon monoxide

Run a generator outdoors only, at least 20 feet away from windows, doors and attached garages (Ready.gov).
Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas from gasoline, propane and charcoal burning devices. Never use them inside your home, garage or carport, or near doors, windows or vents (CDC).
Never use a gas stove or oven to heat your home. Use camp stoves and charcoal grills only outdoors, at least 20 feet from windows (Ready.gov).
Install carbon monoxide detectors with battery backup on every level of your home (Ready.gov).
Keep a generator dry and do not touch a wet generator or connected devices. Let it cool before refueling, and use heavy-duty extension cords to connect appliances (Ready.gov).

3. Protect your home and people

Turn off or unplug appliances, equipment and electronics. Power may return with surges or spikes that can damage them (Ready.gov).
Keep a flashlight for every household member (Ready.gov).
If you rely on medicine that needs refrigeration or on power-dependent medical devices, plan alternatives and ask your medical provider for an outage plan (Ready.gov).
If the heat or cold becomes extreme, go to a community location with power. Check with local officials for nearby heating and cooling locations (Ready.gov).

Sources

Free official resources

Ready.gov: Build a Kit (supply list, printable PDF)